Nestlé (NESN.S) has introduced a new line of protein shots in the United States designed to help suppress appetite for individuals seeking to lose weight.

This launch is part of the company’s strategy to capitalize on the growing market for weight-loss products.

The new shake, named Boost Pre-Meal Hunger Support, is intended to be consumed up to 30 minutes before meals and targets consumers using GLP-1 medications, such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound.

These drugs work by mimicking an intestinal hormone that curbs appetite and promotes a sense of fullness.

According to Stefan Palzer, Nestlé’s Chief Technology Officer, the drink triggers a natural response in the body, increasing levels of GLP-1, albeit to a lesser extent than prescription weight-loss medications.

The shots contain 10 grams of whey protein, 45 calories, 1 gram of sugar, and are fat-free, retailing for $10.99 for a pack of four on Amazon and at select CVS stores.

They are marketed as promoting a “NATURAL GLP-1 response to a meal.”

Experts like Lora Heisler from the Rowett Institute have expressed caution, noting that while the protein shot may enhance GLP-1 release, similar effects could potentially be achieved with other food sources, such as milk.

Earlier this year, Nestlé had already begun selling a line of frozen pizzas and protein-enriched pastas aimed at consumers taking weight-loss medications.

With analysts predicting the global obesity drug market could reach $150 billion annually within the next decade, Nestlé’s new product positions the company to meet the rising demand in this sector.

The formula for the shots, which Nestlé has patented, combines quickly digested peptides to provide an amino acid spike that helps control hunger.

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Additionally, whey protein micro-gels facilitate slower digestion, allowing for prolonged interaction with intestinal receptors that release GLP-1.

In a 2021 study involving individuals with type-2 diabetes, those consuming whey protein demonstrated a 22% reduction in glucose levels compared to a placebo group, alongside a positive impact on GLP-1 hormone levels.